The hertz is one cycle per second.
Hertz to Petahertz Converter — Hz to PHz
Convert Hertz (Hz) to Petahertz (PHz) using the exact conversion factor (1 hertz = 1e-15 petahertz). See the formula, worked examples, conversion table, history, and common uses.
Hertz to Petahertz converter
Converter
Frequency Converter
Convert hertz, SI frequency prefixes, RPM, beats per minute, and angular frequency.
Context values
Some unit families need one extra value for a physically accurate result.
Petahertz is 1000000000000000 hertz units.
Result = input x 1 / 1e+15.
Frequency uses hertz as the base unit.
Reserved above the conversion cards and below the converter.
About Converting Hertz to Petahertz
Hertz and Petahertz both describe how fast something cycles or rotates, and the conversion is a routine part of reading a car tachometer or motor spec sheet against a scientific frequency figure. Hertz is most often used for electrical power frequency (50/60 hz worldwide).
Formula
petahertz = hertz × 1e-15
This factor comes from each unit's defined relationship to the category's base unit: 1 hertz equals 1 base unit, and 1 petahertz equals 1e+15 base units, so dividing one by the other gives the direct hertz-to-petahertz factor of 1e-15.
Simple example
1 Hz × 1e-15 = 1e-15 PHz
1 hertz = 1e-15 petahertz.
Real-world example
1,000 Hz × 1e-15 = 1e-12 PHz
1,000 hertz = 1e-12 petahertz.
Conversion table
| Hertz (Hz) | Petahertz (PHz) |
|---|---|
| 60 Hz | 6e-14 PHz |
| 600 Hz | 6e-13 PHz |
| 1,000 Hz | 1e-12 PHz |
| 3,000 Hz | 3e-12 PHz |
| 6,000 Hz | 6e-12 PHz |
| 10,000 Hz | 1e-11 PHz |
Reverse conversion: Petahertz to Hertz
1e-15 PHz × 1e+15 = 1 Hz
1e-15 petahertz = 1 hertz.
hertz = petahertz × 1e+15
For a page dedicated to this direction, see Petahertz to Hertz.
Understanding the Hertz
Hertz (Hz) measures frequency. The hertz is the SI derived unit of frequency: one cycle per second. It is classified as a SI derived unit.
Where it's used: Standard scientific unit worldwide; also everyday (AC power frequency, radio, audio)
Uses of the Hertz today
- Electrical power frequency (50/60 Hz worldwide)
- Radio, audio, and signal processing
- Computer processor clock speeds (GHz)
History of the Hertz
The hertz is named after Heinrich Hertz, who in 1886-1889 was the first to conclusively demonstrate the existence of electromagnetic waves predicted by Maxwell's equations. The unit ('cycles per second') was renamed in his honor and adopted internationally in 1930, becoming the SI derived unit of frequency in 1960.
Historical origin. Hertz was not the invention of a single named person; it developed through the process described above.
Understanding the Petahertz (PHz)
Petahertz is 1000000000000000 hertz units.
Hertz — sources
- BIPM SI Brochure — Coherent derived units — Defines the hertz as the SI unit of frequency.
Reserved between the cards and the FAQ so the page stays balanced.
Frequently asked questions
How many petahertz are in 1 hertz?
1 hertz equals 1e-15 petahertz, using the exact defined conversion factor rather than an estimate.
How do I convert hertz to petahertz?
Multiply the hertz value by 1e-15. The converter above does this instantly to whatever precision you set.
How do I convert petahertz back to hertz?
Use the reverse factor: 1 petahertz equals 1e+15 hertz. You can also use the swap control in the converter above to flip the direction instantly.
What is a hertz?
Hertz (Hz) measures frequency. The hertz is the SI derived unit of frequency: one cycle per second. It is classified as a SI derived unit.
What is a petahertz?
Petahertz (PHz) is a unit of frequency.
Is the hertz to petahertz conversion exact?
Yes. Both hertz and petahertz are defined by fixed standards rather than physical artifacts, so the factor of 1e-15 used above is exact to as many digits as you choose to display.
Where is the hertz still used today?
Standard scientific unit worldwide; also everyday (AC power frequency, radio, audio)